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What Causes Numbness In Extremities And Dehydration?
Posted on
Wed, 21 Oct 2015
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Wed, 21 Oct 2015
Answered on
Thu, 12 Nov 2015
Last reviewed on
Question : Hello Dr. I'm asking again for my mom who is 92 -- she has been experiencing numbness in her extremities today--could that also be a sign of dehydration, or what other ailments can cause this? Thanks!
Brief Answer:
dehydration can cause abnormal electrolytes and cause numbness
Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic
Yes, dehydration can cause abnormal sensations such as numbness because it results in deranged levels of some of the electrolytes eg sodium , potassium
Abnormal levels of these electrolytes can sometimes cause these sensations.
Other causes would be : (1) issues with the circulation to the extremities due to blockage of the blood vessels or from reduction in ambient temperature
(2) vitamin b12 or folate deficiency
(3)liver disease, kidney disease, diabetes
(4)trauma to the nerves supplying the area, exposure to toxins
If she is not currently using enough fluids then fluid correction should help to restore fluid balance and electrolytes.
If there is no improvement then other causes would need to be considered: (1) physical examination can assess the pulses
(2)blood tests for vitamin b12 or folate can determine if the levels are normal. If abnormal then replacement can be given
(3)if you wish, she can also have tests for kidney, liver as well
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
dehydration can cause abnormal electrolytes and cause numbness
Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic
Yes, dehydration can cause abnormal sensations such as numbness because it results in deranged levels of some of the electrolytes eg sodium , potassium
Abnormal levels of these electrolytes can sometimes cause these sensations.
Other causes would be : (1) issues with the circulation to the extremities due to blockage of the blood vessels or from reduction in ambient temperature
(2) vitamin b12 or folate deficiency
(3)liver disease, kidney disease, diabetes
(4)trauma to the nerves supplying the area, exposure to toxins
If she is not currently using enough fluids then fluid correction should help to restore fluid balance and electrolytes.
If there is no improvement then other causes would need to be considered: (1) physical examination can assess the pulses
(2)blood tests for vitamin b12 or folate can determine if the levels are normal. If abnormal then replacement can be given
(3)if you wish, she can also have tests for kidney, liver as well
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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